News

News

News

4/25/2018: CELLebrating National DNA Day

Scientists are constantly searching for non-invasive technologies to detect cancer and pre-dispositions for various diseases. Dr. David Wong, Associate Dean for Research at UCLA school of Dentistry, is a recognized leader in the field of salivary diagnostics. He states, “Most people are surprised when I tell them that saliva can reveal as much if not more than blood or urine can.”

This simple testing will allow for the detection of serious diseases. These “liquid non-invasive biopsies” put dentists at the forefront of preventive medicine!

3/6/2018: Namaste in the Dental Chair

Pain is a psychological issue, and dental pain is no exception. Although there is a definitive scientific and physical basis for pain, it can be markedly increased by anxiety, much like the fear and anxiety associated with a dental visit.

One amazing solution to the phenomenon is the same technique utilized in yoga to enhance focus and physical effort.
Breathe.

Exhale completely.

Inhale for 1,2,3,4 counts.

Hold your breath at the top.

Slowly release your breath for 1,2,3,4 counts.

Repeat.

Notice how different you feel?

This difference is attributed to the serotonin pumped into your brain as a result of mindful breathing. Serotonin is a natural neurotransmitter, the same one that is used in drugs to combat disorders such as depression and anxiety.

We witness the positive effects that breathing mindfully has during routine dental procedures every day in our office. It’s a simple practice that transforms an experience.

1/9/2018: Happy New Year!

We are looking forward to another great year of serving our patients!

At the end of last year, we traveled to Scottsdale, Arizona for a seminar at the renowned Spear Campus. Continuing educations seminars allow us to keep current with new techniques and technologies in dentistry.

8/23/17: Brushing, Flossing and Visiting Your Dentist, Good for Both Mind and Body!

Periodontitis, inflammation of the gums and surrounding bone, is an infectious disease that can affect not just your teeth but your general health as well. We already know that Periodontitis increases your risk of heart-disease and stroke, and can cause complications for diabetics and pregnant women.

A recent study suggests that people with Periodontitis for 10 or more years are 70% more likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimer’s disease is characterized by increased inflammation of the central nervous system. The study suggests that bacteria from plaque and inflammatory cells from periodontal disease enter the blood stream, cross into the brain and cause degenerative changes that lead to Alzheimer’s disease.
So, oral hygiene is so much more than just preventing bad breath, poor esthetics and tooth loss.

6/21/17: Not All Waters Are Created Equal

If flavored water has become your beverage of choice, you may want to read on.The flavoring comes from citric acid, which causes erosion, the incremental dissolving of the tooth enamel.This erosion can cause long term damage to your teeth, undermining the structural integrity, causing sensitivity, and possibly making your teeth more susceptible to cavities. Additionally, your oral cavity needs to stay at a neutral pH level in order to fight off cavity-causing bacteria. Studies show that drinks below a pH of 4 limit saliva’s ability to maintain a neutral pH and the effects can be damaging.

So let’s see how your beverage of choice measures up:

Plain fluoridated tap water has a pH of 6-8 –the gold standard!

Carbonated water (water with carbonic acid) has a pH of 5—still in the safe zone!

Flavored water (uncarbonated) has a pH of 3

Carbonated flavored water has a pH of 2.7

Coca-Cola has a pH of 2.37 (Carbonated flavored water is still a better choice since Coca-Cola has Sugar)

Pure lemon juice has a pH of 2.25

If you still want to indulge in flavored waters, here are some tips to minimize enamel erosion:

Treat yourself. Save flavored water for a treat.Your main source of hydration should still be plain water.

Drink up. When you do indulge, the less contact with your teeth, the better, as saliva has a chance to neutralize the acid. If you sip throughout the day or swish the liquid around, you maintain your oral cavity at a lower, harmful pH level for longer. Try using a straw instead to minimize contact with your teeth and the rest of your mouth.

Do not brush! Avoid brushing right after the acid exposure.Give the saliva about 20 minutes to neutralize the acid.Brushing at a low acidity level could speed up the enamel erosion.

Drink with meals. Eating stimulates saliva which will neutralize the acidic drinks.

6/7/17: Unzipping the Myths of Natural DIY Teeth Whitening

Natural does not necessarily mean healthy! Utilizing household products as whitening agents can be harmful to your teeth. Contrary to popular belief, acidic foods such as fruits and apple cider vinegar, and abrasive pastes such as baking soda and activated charcoal can actually make your teeth appear darker! These home remedies can wear away your enamel, the white, hard outer surface of your teeth. As this erosion occurs, the underlying darker dentin becomes more visible and your teeth can appear more yellow in addition to becoming more sensitive and susceptible to cavities.

4/7/17: April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month

In partnership with The Oral Cancer Foundation, we at Gottlieb Dental are committed to raising awareness of the disease and encouraging our patients to remain cognizant of their oral health. An easy way to do this is by visiting your dental professional regularly. Our office conducts oral cancer screenings as a part of our routine exams and recall visits. When detected and treated early on, oral cancer survival rates increase drastically.

In recent years, risk factors have changed. It was believed that older smokers and alcoholics were at greater risk of contracting oral cancer, but it has now been proven that even young, non-smoking patients are at risk due to the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), the most common sexually transmitted infection in the US. Additionally, poor nutrition and prolonged sun exposure can increase your risk of contracting oral cancer.

Your mouth is oftentimes the first indicator of disease, so if you are experiencing discomfort or discover something suspicious, please consult with your doctor.

2/14/17: Love Your Gums This Valentine’s Day

This Valentine’s Day, start taking care of your heart by visiting your dentist. If you need another reason to brush twice a day, floss once a day and regularly visit your dentist, gum heath is actually related to heart health! There is a higher risk of heart disease associated with gum disease. Periodontitis is an inflammatory disease caused by bacterial accumulation under the gums. This bacteria can enter your bloodstream and spread to the rest of your body, causing an inflammatory response. This chronic inflammation may increase plaque accumulation on the blood vessels of your heart which could lead to a heart attack or stroke. So don’t forget to show your gums some extra love this Valentine’s Day.

2/3/17: Super Bowl Sunday

As you gear up for the big game, here are some tips to keep your mouth healthy while watching the Super Bowl:

Ditch carb heavy chips and crackers that leave residue on your teeth and opt for raw veggies. Raw veggies are rich in fiber and require lots of chewing, which stimulates healthy gums. Carrots help build strong teeth and cucumbers can help tackle bad breath in addition to naturally whitening teeth.

Score stronger teeth with calcium rich snacks such as cheeses and dips.

12/22/16: Happy Holidays

Happy Holidays from Gottlieb Dental. Our office will be closed the last week of December. We will reopen on Tuesday January 3rd. We are looking forward to spending the holidays with our families, traveling, recharging our batteries and getting ready to serve you in the new year! Our messages will be checked periodically and of course we are on call for any dental emergencies that may arise. Wishing you and your loved ones a Happy New Year!

11/4/16: Drs. Gottlieb and Father

We at Gottlieb Dental are excited to welcome Blima, Dr. Gottlieb’s youngest daughter, into the dental fold. She has just begun her dental training at UCLA. Soon we will need to make room for her at the office, but for now, we wish her the best of luck in all her studies!Dr. Gottlieb and Dr. Neeli with Blima at her white coat ceremony, which marks the beginning of her journey towards becoming a dentist.

10/28/16: Happy Halloween From Gottlieb Dental

Halloween is a tricky holiday when it comes to our oral health. For those of you with a sweet tooth, here are some tips to limit the damage to your teeth. Timing of candy consumption is important. As the bacteria in our mouths are exposed to sugar they produce an acidic byproduct which is harmful to our teeth. Our saliva is able to neutralize this acid acting to protect our teeth from the acid. Eating candy around meal times or shortly after is better since saliva is optimal at this time. Drinking fluoridated water as opposed to sugary drinks is helpful as well. Some sweets are worse for your teeth than others. Chocolate for example washes off your teeth better than sticky and gummy candies. Hard candies generally stay in your mouth longer, exposing your teeth to acid for a longer period of time, so try to swap hard candies for sugar free alternatives. Beware because hard candies can also crack your teeth. Sour candies are usually very acidic which is harmful to our teeth. Most importantly, remember to brush twice a day and floss once a day to prevent tooth decay!

8/15/16: Floss The Teeth You Want To Keep!

Although a recent article released by the Associated Press has expressed skepticism in the practice of flossing, we still firmly support the ADA’s recommendation to use floss daily. In response to the AP’s claim that there is a lack of evidence supporting the benefits of flossing, the ADA aptly states that, “a lack of strong evidence doesn’t equate to a lack of effectiveness.” In essence, we see the difference that flossing makes in our patients’ oral health every day. Up to date, floss is the most effective way to reach the interdental region, where toothbrushes simply cannot clean. We recommend flossing daily in order to effectively remove plaque, which is made up of bacteria that can lead to cavities, gum disease, and even infection. So to the skeptics, we say, “floss the teeth you want to keep!”

Watch this short tutorial to learn how to floss the right way.

3/4/16: TMD Can Be Quite the Headache!

TMD is a common disorder of your temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which is located at the junction of your jaw bo
ne and skull, and while many patients suffer from this disorder, oftentimes they fail to recognize its symptoms. While headaches are a common ailment that can be caused by various factors, they are also indicative of TMD. Other sy
mptoms include ear, back, and neck aches caused by clenching of the jaw and grinding of the teeth. TMD can be attributed to stress, sleep disorders, medications, abnormal tooth alignment, and substance abuse. Without treatment, symptoms can worsen, causing gum recession, tooth sensitivity and loss of tooth mass. Although oral surgery and orthodontic treatment are extreme solutions to this common disorder, wearing a night guard appliance can significantly alleviate pain and improve symptoms dramatically.

Patients’ symptoms can vary, so inquire whether a night guard is the right course of action for you.

2/18/16: Educating the Future

In honor of National Children’s Dental Health Month, Drs. Gottlieb visited a local preschool class to teach them about oral health. Reading “Melvin the Magnificent Molar” helped our Drs. teach the children about brushing, flossing and even losing their teeth. We recommend biyearly checkups for children starting at age two and brushing teeth as soon as they grow in. It’s never too early to start educating children about the benefits of brushing and taking care of their mouths!

11/24/15: Lick Your Mouth Clean

Microbiologists at our doctors’ alma mater, UCLA, have discovered a revolutionary way to keep your mouth clean…by licking a lollipop! Loloz contain a natural antibacterial herbal formula called Cavibloc, which targets the bacteria that causes gum disease, bad breath and cavities. Along with your regular daily routine of brushing and flossing, and your regular cleanings, Loloz can significantly improve your oral health with just two lollipops a day for ten days.

10/29/15: The Doctor Is In!

Dr. Neeli Gottlieb has joined our practice as of July 2015. Her fresh perspective continues to elevate our practice, as many of you have already had the opportunity to witness. She looks forward to meeting everybody, with whom she has not yet had the opportunity to meet, and to share her passion for dentistry.

10/29/15: What To Expect When You’re Fluoridating

Pregnancy is a crucial time to focus on your oral health. During pregnancy there is an increase in acidity eroding tooth enamel due to morning sickness and acid reflux, as well as heightened cases of gingivitis caused by hormonal changes. It is important to remember to keep your teeth well-fluoridated and maintain your overall oral health by regular visits to your dentist.

Of course, concerns arise regarding the safety of your unborn child while using products like fluoridated toothpaste and alcohol-containing mouthwash. It is important to note that there have not been any substantiated risks in using fluoride during pregnancy. Additionally, studies have shown no significant correlation between fluoride consumption during pregnancy and increased enamel-health in children. So while it may not benefit or harm your child’s developing teeth, it will benefit your own. Although the fluoride you consume can reach the outer layer of the placenta, it will not penetrate. As a precaution, we do recommend staying away from fluoridated supplements, but regular toothpaste containing fluoride is perfectly safe. When using fluoridated toothpaste and mouthwash during pregnancy, alcohol-containing or not, just remember to avoid swallowing. In doing so, you will be sure to reap the cavity preventing and antimicrobial benefits of these products.

Remember, keeping up with your health is the best thing you can do for your baby’s health!

10/23/15: In Pursuit of Great Dentistry

Our doctors traveled to Scottsdale, Arizona with Cerec Doctors to attend a seminar at the Spear Center. They learned new techniques in aesthetics and orthodontics using our in-house, state-of-the-art Cerec technology.

Ask us about what this technology can do for you!

7/9/15: Oil Pulling: Ancient Remedy or Antiquated Fallacy?

“Oil pulling,” the ancient Ayurvedic practice of rinsing your mouth with oil, has recently taken up residence in the spotlight of oral health. Proponents of the trend claim that its various benefits include detoxification, teeth whitening, and weight loss among others. But are these claims substantiated?

According to the ADA, “scientific studies have not provided the necessary clinical evidence to demonstrate that oil pulling reduces the incidence of dental caries, whitens teeth or improves oral health and well being.” One study found Chlorhexidine rinse, a traditional anti-bacterial mouth rinse, to be more effective in reducing the cavity producing bacteria S. mutans. Additionally, there are potential adverse reactions associated with oil pulling such as lipoid pneumonia, mineral oil aspiration, and upset stomach. Until a thorough study that weighs the benefits while considering the risks is performed, the ADA does not recommend oil pulling as a means of practicing proper oral hygiene. Until then, keep up the brushing and flossing!

5/5/15: The Art and Science of Dentistry

The newest, “soon-to-be”, Dr. Gottlieb at the annual California Dental Convention working to bring you the latest in dental technologies.

4/27/15: Food For Thought from Dr. Gottlieb

Everyone knows that candy and soda are bad for your teeth, but this Huffington Post article illuminates a few unexpected tooth-damaging culprits.

This article explains how ice, dried fruit, bread, alcohol, and even berries can deteriorate your healthy smile. Whether they’re providing a hospitable environment for bacteria to proliferate, attacking enamel by their dense or acidic nature, or staining your white teeth, these foods should be avoided whenever possible.

9/24/14: Kids Reminding Adults to Brush

As adults, we need to remember to set good examples for children. Taking good care of our teeth is one of these important examples.

7/15/14: A Possible Future of Dentistry

Exciting changes ahead in the future of dentistry. Dentistry has finally made it to the forefront of bio-engineering with the advent of “directing cell growth and regeneration” to take the place of “drilling and filling.” A Harvard led team has just successfully used low-powered lasers to activate stem cells and stimulate the growth of teeth in rats and human dental tissue in the lab.

So what does this mean to the future of dentistry? Instead of restoring teeth by drilling and filling, your own stem cells may actually repair or even stimulate the growth of new teeth. You can read the story here…

6/10/14: Roxanne went to China!

Our Office Manager, Roxanne, and her husband Bill ran in the “Great Wall Marathon.” Roxanne wrote the follow account.

“The Great Wall Marathon takes place in the Huangya (Yellow Cliffs Pass) region of China. It’s said to be the 5th most difficult marathon in the world….I did the 1/2 marathon (13.1miles) and it was a challenge. The course started on the Great Wall, where I climbed my way up and down over a thousand steps. I had a breathtaking 360-degree view of green tree-covered mountains, which helped a little bit to take my mind off all of those stairs.”

“The course then took me onto village streets where I ran side-by-side with motorized bicycles, cars and buses and smiling small children were standing street-side giving me high-fives and little wildflowers. I then followed the course signs to the left and was running next to the Hai River, where I made my way carefully along a loose gravel road, past village fields and houses and then up a dry creek bed full of rocks and boulders. At that point I was finally back onto the main road and ended my race at the base of the Wall, in Yin and Yang Square.”

“The medal that I’m wearing represents that I finished!” — Roxanne

4/28/14: Watch a Movie During Your Next Dental Visit!

As well as receiving the benefits of the latest dental technology, you can now watch Netflix movies and shows while we take care of your teeth. If you have never tried i-Glasses, it’s like watching an 80″ high-definition TV screen and quite an experience! We are constantly looking for ways to improve your experience at our office and hope you enjoy this benefit.

3/9/14: Does Your Pet Rhino Need an Exam?

Dr. Gottlieb’s granddaughter Brooke thought so! With UCLA dental school student Neeli at his side, Dr. Gottlieb visited Brooke’s class to teach the kids how to take care of their teeth.

Has it been a while since you had a dental exam? If so, you’ll love Dr. Gottlieb’s gentle touch. We even have some stuffed animals available to comfort you.

2/28/14: The Future of Gottlieb Dental

Dr. Gottlieb’s daughter Neeli will be joining our practice after she gets her degree from UCLA Dental School in June 2015!

When Neeli began her training, UCLA held a “White Coat Ceremony” for her and her classmates. She took her oath to care for patients and received her first white coat. As you can see, Dr. Gottlieb (and everyone on our team) is very proud!

1/16/14: Welcome to Gotdentist.com!

On this page of our website we will be posting news and information about dentistry and our practice. Be sure to check back from time to time!

To start things off, I thought you might like to see one very good reason to floss.

I hope you enjoy it and I look forward to seeing you at your next visit!